Japan's Enchanting Odyssey From Tokyo to Sapporo

Welcome to Japan! Once you've completed the customs procedures, you'll be transferred to your hotel via a shared shuttle bus. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind and explore at your leisure. In the afternoon, you'll receive important details about the start of your tour. Enjoy your time in this vibrant city, soak in the surroundings, and get ready for the adventures ahead. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

We'll start our second day in Tokyo with an immersive guided tour of this captivating city, which will last approximately five hours. Tokyo is a harmonious blend of vibrant energy and serene spaces, offering a unique juxtaposition of old and new. Our first stop is at the Zojoji Temple, where you'll have the chance to capture one of Tokyo's most iconic views with the Tokyo Tower in the background. The temple grounds feature rows of Jizo statues, which are believed to protect children and are adorned with colourful hats and bibs.Next, we'll make our way to Shibuya Crossing, renowned as the busiest intersection in the world, before visiting the tranquil Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. We'll continue our journey by bus along the fashionable Omotesando Avenue, taking in some of Tokyo's chic architecture. Our tour will bring us to the Imperial Palace, where we'll see the picturesque Nijubashi Bridge and enjoy views of the beautiful gardens.As we proceed, we'll pass through Akihabara, known as "Electric Town," a vibrant area celebrated for its manga and anime culture. We'll also drive by the Kokugikan, Japan's premier sumo wrestling arena. Our city tour concludes in Asakusa, where we'll explore Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's oldest temple, and stroll along the lively Nakamise Street. We'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel.At 6:30 p.m., we'll meet our guide in the hotel's lobby to venture to the bustling district of Shinjuku via metro, with tickets provided. Here, we'll explore its lively streets, famed for vibrant nightlife, before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant. We'll then return to the hotel by metro, guided by our expert.

On the third day, after a hearty breakfast, we will make our way to the station to catch the renowned bullet train to Hiroshima. This four-hour journey covers approximately 800 kilometres, offering a glimpse into Japan's remarkable rail system. Upon reaching Hiroshima, a city deeply impacted by the events of 1945, we will embark on a poignant exploration. Our itinerary includes a walk through the serene Peace Memorial Park and visits to the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum, each standing as a testament to resilience and hope.Later, we will take a ferry to an enchanting island, traditionally believed to be a place where gods and people coexist. Here, we will visit the striking Itsukushima Shrine, an iconic structure partially built over the sea and dedicated to the guardian of the seas. You will have some time to explore the shrine and the charming island centre at your leisure, as well as enjoy lunch at your convenience. We will return to Hiroshima in the evening, where a dinner awaits us, offering a perfect end to a day of reflection and discovery. Please note that the sequence of our visits in Hiroshima may vary, but rest assured, you will experience all that is planned.

Today, we begin with a scenic ferry journey to Shikoku Island, lasting approximately two and a half hours. This voyage offers a unique perspective on Japan's geography, as it is composed of numerous islands. Upon reaching Matsuyama, we will ascend by cable car to visit its remarkable castle, a significant landmark steeped in history. After soaking in the views from the castle, we will explore Ishiteji, a tranquil Buddhist temple renowned as a revered pilgrimage destination. We will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, giving us a taste of regional cuisine. In the afternoon, we will immerse ourselves in a quintessential Japanese experience with a visit to Dogo Onsen, a storied bathhouse dating back to the 19th century, where you can unwind and appreciate this cultural tradition.

Today, we will venture to Kotohira to explore a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the God of sailors. This significant pilgrimage site is perched atop Mount Zosu and requires a climb of 785 steps. Our journey continues to Takamatsu, where we will visit Ritsurin, celebrated as one of Japan's most exquisite gardens. Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant. Later, we’ll make a stop in Naruto at a remarkable bridge that spans the sea. Here, you can marvel at its innovative construction and take a thrilling walk along its glass floor, providing a unique view of the dynamic sea whirlpools from 45 metres above. Our scenic route crosses a series of breathtaking bridges that elegantly connect islands over the sea. Our travels will conclude for the day upon arrival in Kobe, where we will stay overnight.

Today, we'll start by visiting the Earthquake Memorial Museum in Kobe. This poignant site pays tribute to the victims of the devastating 1995 earthquake and showcases the city’s incredible recovery. Later, we'll make our way to Osaka before venturing to the serene Mount Koya, a significant centre of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Amidst its sacred atmosphere, you'll discover over 120 temples and monasteries.Our exploration includes a visit to the revered Okuno Mausoleum, surrounded by nature in a vast cemetery, and the historic Kongobuji Temple, dating back to 1593. We'll spend the night at a Buddhist monastery, where monks will guide us in a Zen meditation session known as Ajikan. Dinner will be a vegetarian meal, reflecting the traditional monastic lifestyle.If you wish, you can attend a morning religious ceremony at the temple before breakfast. Please note that on certain dates, instead of the Earthquake Museum, we may visit the Sake Museum or enjoy an ascent up Kobe Tower. Accommodation in the monastery offers a unique and valuable experience, but rooms are simple and traditional, featuring tatami mats and shared bathrooms. During peak tourist times, we cannot guarantee the meditation practice, and if necessary, we might arrange hotels nearby with half board.

We begin our day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple, setting the tone for our journey to Kyoto. Historically significant as Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868, Kyoto escaped the ravages of World War II bombings, preserving its rich artistic and cultural heritage. Here, we'll explore some of its remarkable attractions. We start with the Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari, renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, and continue to the historic Imperial Palace. You'll also have the opportunity to marvel at the enchanting Kinkaku-ji Temple, known as the 'Golden Pavilion,' surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens.Later, you’ll have free time to wander and absorb the city’s unique blend of old and new. In the evening, we’ll head to Gion, a lively traditional district famous for its Geisha culture, where you can soak in the atmosphere and explore further at your own pace. Note: If you've previously visited Kyoto during your tour, our guide will be happy to suggest alternative places to explore independently.

After breakfast, we set off along the shores of one of Japan's largest lakes. Our first stop is at Shirahige Ginra, a charming shrine nestled by the water. We then proceed to Eihei-ji, a temple-monastery established in 1244, which serves as a pivotal centre of Zen Buddhism in Japan. Admission is included to experience its serene environment, impressive architecture, and verdant gardens. Engulfed in a tranquil atmosphere, it's a vital training ground for monks practising Zazen meditation and adhering to a disciplined daily routine. Continuing to Katsuyama, we explore the Dinosaur Museum, sited at Japan's largest dinosaur fossil site. Here, you can enjoy lunch and wander through enlightening exhibits showcasing over 40 dinosaur skeletons. Following this, we visit the Great Buddha of Echizen and its majestic temple, complete with a five-storey pagoda that offers panoramic views after a brief climb. Our day concludes as we arrive in Kanazawa by the evening, ready for rest and further adventures tomorrow.

Today, we dedicate a full day to exploring Kanazawa, a city that has retained much of its historic charm, having been spared from World War II air raids. Our morning begins with a guided tour, where we'll immerse ourselves in the city's rich history, visiting the castle area and admiring its formidable walls. We'll then stroll through the Nagamachi neighborhood, once home to samurai and their families. This area still reflects its historical roots, with well-preserved residences, narrow alleys, and tranquil water canals.A highlight of our visit will be Kenrokuen Garden, recognised as one of the three most exquisite gardens in Japan, where we'll have time to appreciate its delicate beauty. Our guided tour concludes at Omicho Market, a traditional bustling market where you can explore a variety of local delicacies for lunch. The afternoon will be yours to venture out and discover more of Kanazawa at your leisure.

Today, we embark on a captivating journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Gokayama and Shirakawa-go regions, renowned for their charming mountain villages. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are celebrated for their unique traditional houses with steeply pitched roofs, reminiscent of monks' praying hands – ingeniously designed to bear the weight of heavy snowfalls. Our first stop is Ainokura, a quaint village where you can explore at a leisurely pace and soak in the serene atmosphere. We then continue to Shirakawa-go Ogimachi, a larger, more popular village, with ample time to wander and enjoy lunch in the beautiful surroundings.After our village visits, we proceed to Takayama, where we'll explore the Hida Folk Village Museum. This open-air museum, nestled in a tranquil setting, features over 30 Edo Period (1603-1868) traditional houses that have been relocated to this site since 1971. These historical buildings display a fascinating collection of tools and utensils from everyday life in the past. Later, you'll have the opportunity to stroll through Takayama's charming old town, famed for its well-preserved wooden houses and traditional shops, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Following breakfast, we will journey to Hida Furukawa, a town renowned for its enchanting old streets and vibrant cultural heritage. Here, we'll wander through its charming historical district, gaining insight into the town's famous festival, recognised by UNESCO for its spectacular floats and rhythmic drums. You'll have the opportunity to visit the museum where these remarkable floats, costumes, and drums are displayed, offering a glimpse into the town's rich traditions. Our day continues as we traverse the breathtaking Japanese Alps, famous for their snow-kissed vistas year-round. Upon reaching Matsumoto, we'll visit the illustrious Crow Castle. Dating back to the 16th century and known for its striking black façade, this castle is a prominent example of Japan's architectural legacy. After exploring the castle, you will have free time to enjoy lunch and discover more of the town's charms. In the afternoon, we will continue to Nagano, where we will settle into our accommodation.

In Nagano, we begin by visiting Zenko-ji, a revered pilgrimage destination that houses Japan's first Buddhist image. You’ll experience the Gomakuyo ceremony, believed to bestow blessings and good fortune. Next, we travel through the picturesque Japanese Alps, into the mountains to explore Jigokudani Monkey Park. Here, you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch followed by a walk through serene forests, rivers, and hot springs, home to colonies of Japanese macaques enjoying a soak. As we continue, we ascend to stunning high-altitude scenery, reaching heights of 2,172 metres, taking us past semi-active volcanoes. Our journey brings us to Kusatsu, a delightful spa town with a vibrant main square, where we embark on a relaxed walk through a park featuring an open-air onsen. We then proceed to the picturesque spa town of Ikaho, known for its charming historic centre and iconic stairways. Tonight, we retreat to a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where you can unwind in its thermal baths. The day concludes with an included traditional Japanese dinner. Please note, during autumn, monkey sightings may be less predictable due to fruit availability, and weather conditions from November to April might alter visits to Kusatsu.

Today, our adventure leads us to the enchanting town of Nikko, where we will explore the renowned Nikko-Toshogu Temple, celebrated for its captivating "room with the sound of a dragon." We will also visit the tranquil Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, a serene site that exudes peace and spirituality. Following these visits, we will take a leisurely walk along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where you'll find rows of Jizo statues silently watching over the flowing river. After exploring these cultural treasures, you'll have some free time to wander the charming town centre at your own pace before we move onwards to Sendai. This vibrant and modern city, teeming with over a million inhabitants, offers bustling streets and a lively city centre where you can indulge in dinner and soak in the energetic atmosphere.

Today we leave for the enchanting city of Matsushima, famed for its stunning "Thousand Islands" Bay along the Pacific Ocean. It is celebrated as one of Japan's most picturesque locations. Upon arrival, we'll enjoy a tranquil tea at a charming tea house overlooking the sea while our guide enlightens us with intriguing tales about the city. Following this, we set sail on a delightful 50-minute cruise, savouring lunch on board as we take in the serene beauty of the bay.Our adventure continues to Hiraizumi, where we explore some of its historic treasures. We begin with a visit to Takkoku no Iwaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site exquisitely carved into the rock face in 801. This cultural gem is followed by the splendid Buddhist temples of Chusonji, a testament to Japan's rich spiritual past. Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquil gardens of Motsuji Temple, participating in a Zen ceremony included in your visit. We conclude our day in the pleasant city of Morioka, the capital of Iwate Province, where we check into our hotel. You'll have some free time to unwind and explore the local area at your own pace.

Today, we will travel through the breathtaking landscapes to Hirosaki, renowned for its enchanting castle nestled within a sprawling park. Here, during spring, over 2,500 cherry trees create a spectacular display of blossom. Our journey then takes us to Aomori, the vibrant provincial capital perched on Mutsu Bay. In Aomori, we will delve into the rich tapestry of Japanese festival traditions at the Nebuta Museum, where you'll discover the art behind their captivating illuminated floats. Lunch is included at a local restaurant before we embark on a ferry crossing to Hokkaido. The journey, lasting just over three and a half hours, offers a chance to unwind and enjoy the serene views. Once in Hakodate, we’ll explore its charming historic district, reflecting cultural influences with features such as the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian architectural gems.

In the morning, we’ll immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Hakodate's bustling fish market – a cultural insight not to be missed. A short climb up Goryokaku Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views, allowing us to appreciate the star-shaped design of Hakodate's historic fortress. You’ll then have some free time to explore the old castle area as we make our way to Onuma.Set against a backdrop of natural splendour, Onuma is dotted with charming small islands. Here, you have the option to take a leisurely boat ride or enjoy a stroll along the picturesque walking trails. Lunch is included at a local restaurant amidst this tranquil setting.Our journey continues along the scenic coastline to Noboribetsu, famed for its dramatic and awe-inspiring volcanic terrain. We’ll explore Jigokudani, aptly named ‘Hell Valley’, where steam vents create an otherworldly landscape, and visit the mist-covered waters of Lake Oyunuma. The trail leads us along a hot spring river to a serene spot where you can relax with a soothing foot bath.Later, we set off for Sapporo, reaching this captivating northern capital of Japan in the evening, ready to uncover its many charms.

During our visit to Sapporo, we'll embark on a city tour that includes a stop at the iconic Clock Tower and Odori Koen—a striking park avenue dominated by the impressive Sapporo TV Tower. We'll also visit the beautiful Hokkaido Jingu Shinto shrine, where we'll participate in a Kito, a traditional ceremonial prayer to express gratitude for our journey. Venturing to the outskirts, we'll explore the Hill of Buddha, an avant-garde architectural marvel unveiled in 2015. This lavender-cloaked hilltop houses a grand Buddha statue and features replicas of the Moai statues from Easter Island within its complex.Our journey continues to Otaru, a charming town with a European flair, boasting vibrant shopping streets, a historic canal, and quaint museums. Lunch is provided at a local restaurant before we return to Sapporo by 3:30 p.m. The rest of the afternoon is yours to discover the city's unique offerings at your own pace.

After breakfast, our journey concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of your adventures.